Seven men to stand trial accused of importing drugs to Ireland after ship arrests
Seven men will go on trial at the Special Criminal Court charged with conspiracy to smuggle drugs into Ireland after they were arrested on board ships in Kerry and Clare.
State solicitor Ciara Vibien today told the three-judge, non-jury court that the men were sent forward from Tralee District Court on June 18 last, each charged with a single count of conspiracy.
Ms Vibien successfully applied to have them tried at the Special Criminal Court, where they will appear on Wednesday, July 9. All seven are in custody.
Miljan Koprivica and Conor Costello arriving at Killarney District Court
The accused men are Gary Monks (40) of Amulree Place, Glasgow, Scotland; Ryan Watson (31) of Mailerbeg Gardens, Modiesburn, Glasgow; Conor Costello (31) of Earhart Park, Madamsbank Rd, Derry; Miljan Koprivica (45) of Bollin Drive, Manchester.
Three Filipino men are also charged: Hanz Pangahin (36), Christopher Ampo (44) and Feljon Lao (62).
Feljon Lao at Killarney courthouse following his arrrest. Photo by Tatyana McGough
The single count against each accused alleges that they conspired with one another and unknown others on dates between December 18, 2024 and January 15, 2025, both dates inclusive, within and outside the State, to import controlled drugs worth in excess of €13,000.
The alleged offence is contrary to section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, as amended.
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